Detroit Tigers manager A.J. Hinch announced Thursday that ace Tarik Skubal will return from the injured list to start against the Cleveland Guardians on Saturday. The reigning American League Cy Young Award winner underwent surgery on May 6 to remove a loose body from his left elbow.
Skubal last pitched for the Tigers on April 29. He had the procedure performed by Dr. Neal ElAttrache using a nanoscope, a less invasive method than traditional arthroscopic surgery.
The 29-year-old made a rehab start last Friday for High-A West Michigan. He tossed five scoreless innings with six strikeouts and threw 54 pitches.
"We're adding the best pitcher in baseball back to our mix," Hinch said. "It's hard to describe what that boost will be."
Skubal said he does not view the recovery as ahead of schedule. "The doctor, when I had surgery, told me 4-6 weeks," he said.
